Nexus Louisiana Partners with Pharrell Williams Black Ambition for 2024 BizTech Challenge

New Orleans – Nexus Louisiana is excited to announce its partnership with Black Ambition, a groundbreaking initiative founded by Pharrell Williams, for the 2024 BizTech Challenge. This competition, designed to support innovative businesses and entrepreneurs from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across Louisiana, will take place during the Bayou Classic weekend in New Orleans.

Black Ambition, known for promoting entrepreneurship within underrepresented communities, aligns seamlessly with Nexus Louisiana’s mission of fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The collaboration will provide a powerful platform for students and recent graduates from HBCUs to turn their ideas into viable businesses.

“Partnering with Black Ambition elevates the BizTech Challenge to new heights,” said Na’Tisha Natt, Director of Marketing for Nexus Louisiana. “Together, we are creating opportunities for students to transform their groundbreaking ideas into successful ventures. This partnership offers the network and resources they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”

Black Ambition CEO, Felecia Hatcher, echoed the sentiment, stating, “We’re dedicated to removing barriers and creating equitable pathways for underrepresented entrepreneurs, especially HBCU students. The BizTech Challenge offers a tremendous opportunity for these innovators, and we’re excited to support their journey in partnership with Nexus Louisiana.”

As part of the partnership, Black Ambition will provide business mentors for participants and contribute a judge for the final live pitch competition. Additionally, up to 10 participants will gain priority access to the 2025 HBCU Pre-Accelerator Program, culminating in a $200k+ virtual pitch competition.

The BizTech Challenge, now in its 9th year, remains a premier event for HBCU entrepreneurs, providing valuable mentorship, funding opportunities, and a platform to showcase their ideas. This year’s event, held at the Westin New Orleans on November 29, will gather top talent and industry leaders to celebrate and support entrepreneurial excellence.